Posts

Coronavirus Disconnect March 23, 2020

I haven’t even decided to publish this blog and I’m already questioning whether my motives are valid. At the start I wrote, “It’s my story. It’s my life. This is just an attempt to share it – and I’m not sure why it matters, but to me it does.” But as the Coronavirus pandemic is unfolding, I am reminded how insignificant a single life, with all of its ups and downs, interests and stories, really is.

Of course, as we look at our own lives, they matter to us! But how many thousands are panicked over their heath? How many of those are losing their lives as I write? So how can my silly personal musings matter? I guess they still matter to me and might have a positive effect on those struggling with the same insecurities as I, who read it.

Give A Hoot 03/20/2020

Now that the snow is melted and I’m taking longer walks again, I am dismayed with the amount of trash along my various routes. Not only do I see trash in people’s yards and along neighborhood sidewalks, but even more trash along the walking/bike paths that weave through this town.

When I was young (yep, way back when) our country and its states were vastly increasing our state and federal highway system to handle the exponential increase in auto traffic across the country. With this vast network and increased use, came the mindless tossing of garbage along our roads, in the ditches, in our parks, and along fence lines. Fast food packaging was probably the densest of items. The USDA came up with a mascot and tag line to spearhead its efforts to stop the continued mindless actions of our citizens and promote clean up of the existing eyesore.

I think it’s time to resurrect Woodsy the Hoot Owl and the Give a Hoot, Don’t Pollute efforts across this beautiful land. It’s not enough to just adopt a highway. It’s a much larger problem.

A Great Memory 03/14/2020

I’ve been reminded by recent school closures (COVID-19) of one of my favorite memories from playing in a folk group. I was enrolled in Hubbell Elementary School as a 5th grader after moving to Des Moines in the middle of the year. During my high school senior year, our folk group went back to Hubbell to play for the youngsters there. I never had, nor have I since, experienced such fan enthusiasm! We played Peter, Paul, and Mary songs including Going to the Zoo, Marvelous Toy, and Boa Constrictor (I played that by myself, and still play it for young people whenever I get the chance). We played in the gym where 5th & 6th graders sat on the floor. During our performance, teachers brought the 3rd and 4th graders into the balcony. Full House! They clapped and cheered, and we had a great time. It was the best time. BTW, our signature song was Sweet Judy Blue Eyes by CSN (Stephen Stills).


Left to Right: Me, Sandy, Mark, and Alan